Zarbee’s cough syrup is a popular over-the-counter cough medicine marketed for children ages 2 and up. It contains natural ingredients like honey, agave nectar, and vitamin C. But does it actually work to relieve cough symptoms? Here’s a look at the evidence on Zarbee’s cough syrup effectiveness.
What is Zarbee’s cough syrup?
Zarbee’s is a brand of over-the-counter cough and cold remedies owned by Zarbees Inc. Their cough syrup contains the following active ingredients:
- Honey – Known for its antimicrobial and soothing properties
- Agave nectar – A sweetener that also has antimicrobial effects
- Vitamin C – An antioxidant that may help support immune function
- Natural flavors – Ingredients for taste including cherry and grape flavors
The syrup is designed to coat and soothe the throat while the honey and agave nectar act to suppress coughs. It does not contain any cough suppressants, antihistamines, or decongestants you would find in many conventional cough syrups.
Does honey work for coughs?
Multiple studies have found that honey can be effective for relieving cough symptoms, especially nighttime coughing. For example:
- A 2007 study found that children aged 2-5 with upper respiratory infections had improved cough frequency and severity when given honey compared to a placebo treatment. The honey also helped them sleep better.
- A 2012 review looked at several studies on honey for children’s cough. They concluded that honey does appear to provide some symptom relief, especially when used before bedtime.
- A 2018 meta-analysis on honey for children’s cough found that it increased the chances of cough improvement compared to no treatment. The positive effects were greater at night.
The antitussive (cough suppressing) properties of honey are thought to come from its thickness and sweetness, which coat and soothe the throat. Honey also has antimicrobial effects against some bacteria and viruses that cause respiratory infections.
Does agave nectar help coughs?
There is less research specifically on agave nectar for coughs. But there are a few potential mechanisms by which it could help:
- Like honey, agave nectar is very sweet and can coat and soothe an irritated throat.
- Some research indicates agave has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- One animal study found that agave had a cough calming effect, but more research is needed.
So while agave nectar is less studied than honey, it likely provides at least some soothing symptom relief for coughs when used in syrup form. The agave may also work synergistically with the honey in Zarbee’s syrup.
Does vitamin C help with coughs?
Many over-the-counter cough syrups contain vitamin C, though evidence on its effectiveness is mixed.
- A 2011 review found insufficient evidence that vitamin C reduces the duration or severity of upper respiratory infections.
- Another review from 2013 concluded that regular vitamin C supplementation may help prevent colds and slightly shorten them, but does not appear to affect cough severity or duration.
- A few other studies have found some benefit to combining vitamin C with other ingredients like zinc.
So while vitamin C likely does not have significant antitussive effects on its own, it may provide a small supportive effect when combined with the honey and agave nectar in Zarbee’s syrup.
What do reviews say about Zarbee’s cough syrup?
Zarbee’s cough syrup gets overwhelmingly positive reviews online, with over 4 out of 5 stars on sites like Amazon. Here are some of the pros that reviewers frequently mention:
- Helps calm nighttime coughs so children can sleep
- Soothes sore scratchy throats
- Has a pleasant, mild taste that kids like
- Works quickly to suppress coughs
- Natural ingredient formula is safe
- Non-drowsy so does not affect sleep quality
Negative reviews are less common. When they do appear, it’s usually regarding the syrup not working for a particular child’s cough rather than any side effects or taste issues.
Is Zarbee’s cough syrup safe?
The Zarbee’s brand states their products are free of drugs, alcohol, dyes, and commonly allergenic ingredients like gluten. None of the ingredients in their cough syrup have been shown to be unsafe when used appropriately in children ages 2 and older.
The main safety considerations are:
- Not for children under age 2 due to choking hazard
- Honey should never be given to infants under 1 year due to risk of infant botulism
- Too much vitamin C can cause stomach upset
- Diabetic children should use caution due to the sweeteners
As long as dosing guidelines are followed, Zarbee’s is considered very safe compared to conventional cough syrups that often contain drowsiness-inducing antihistamines.
What’s the recommended Zarbee’s cough syrup dosage?
The manufacturer provides the following dosage recommendations on their website:
- Children 2-5 years: 1 teaspoon every 4 hours as needed
- Children 6-11 years: 2 teaspoons every 4 hours as needed
- Children 12+ years: 1 tablespoon every 4 hours as needed
For children under 4, consult a pediatrician for the appropriate dosage. Do not exceed 4 doses in 24 hours. Zarbee’s syrup comes with a dosage cup for measuring out the proper amounts.
How long does Zarbee’s cough syrup take to work?
Many parents report the syrup starts working within 15-30 minutes, with some seeing effects in as little as 5 minutes. However, the time frame can vary depending on the individual and severity of symptoms.
In clinical studies on honey for cough, improvements have been observed starting anywhere from 1 hour to 3 days after beginning treatment. Most studies note the positive effects happen fairly quickly, especially when used before bedtime.
So while Zarbee’s can start relieving coughs soon after taking it, maximal effects may take a few doses over a day or two. It’s best to use it consistently as directed rather than just taking one dose.
Should Zarbee’s syrup be used long-term?
Zarbee’s syrup is intended only for temporary relief of cough symptoms associated with colds, flu, and allergies. It should not be used for chronic coughs or taken regularly for extended periods.
Guidelines recommend only using cough syrups for up to 1 week maximum. If a cough lasts more than 3 weeks, contact your child’s doctor to determine if any treatment is needed.
Do not give Zarbee’s preventatively if your child does not have an active cough. Only use it on an as needed basis for symptom relief.
Does Zarbee’s syrup have side effects?
The natural active ingredients in Zarbee’s cough syrup have minimal side effects in most children when used at the proper dosage. Possible side effects can include:
- Hyperactivity or excitability (due to the natural sugars)
- Mild diarrhea (from the vitamin C)
- Skin rash (allergic reaction)
- Drowsiness (less common due to no antihistamines)
Discontinue use if any concerning reactions occur. As with any medication, consult a doctor immediately if your child has trouble breathing, swelling, or other signs of an allergic reaction.
What other children’s cough syrup brands are comparable?
Some other popular over-the-counter children’s cough syrups include:
| Brand | Active Ingredients | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Mucinex Children’s Cough | Guaifenesin (expectorant) | – Thins mucus – For productive coughs |
| Robitussin Kids Cough & Cold | Dextromethorphan (cough suppressant) Guaifenesin |
– Contains cough suppressant – For wet or dry coughs |
| Dimetapp Children’s Cough & Cold | Brompheniramine (antihistamine) Phenylephrine (decongestant) |
– Antihistamine for allergies – Decongestant for stuffy nose |
While these other brands are also effective, Zarbee’s stands out for its all-natural formula and focus on antagonist and soothing properties over pharmaceutical agents.
Key takeaways on Zarbee’s cough syrup
– Zarbee’s cough syrup relies on honey and agave nectar as natural cough suppressants that coat and soothe the throat.
– Clinical evidence supports using honey, especially before bedtime, to reduce cough frequency and severity.
– The syrup gets very positive reviews for helping calm children’s coughs at night and allowing rest.
– It’s considered very safe due to natural ingredients, but not for children under age 2.
– Start seeing effects typically within 30 minutes, but may take consistent use for 1-2 days for maximal relief.
– Only use for short-term relief of acute coughs associated with colds.
The bottom line
Based on the clinical evidence and overwhelmingly positive reviews, Zarbee’s appears to be an effective option for temporarily relieving cough symptoms in children ages 2 and up. The all-natural ingredient formula minimizes risks and side effects. It works best when used consistently as directed at nighttime to promote restful sleep. While not a cure, Zarbee’s can provide safe, temporary relief for kids’ cough and cold discomfort.
